1st April Chairman of Miss World recognised for work in China

Chairman of the Miss World Organisation Julia Morley was invited to a special event celebrating the 15th Anniversary of Phoenix Satellite Television to receive an award for her work in China. Held at the Great Hall of the People, the Golden Paulownia Awards were presented to those recognised by the government as the most important and influential figures and organisations in China over the past 15 years.

Speaking at a special reception for the 15 honorees, Minister of Culture Mr Cai Wu said:

“When Miss World came to China a few years ago…I assisted and helped to facilitate it. I said this event has huge impact and influence and it's very popular among the young people…”

“In the next five years, China's culture industry is aiming at doubling from the current 2.6% to over 5.2% of the GDP. We need events like Miss World to help us grow the culture economy.”

Julia Morley was recognised for bringing international attention to China through the Miss World Finals, the first event of its kind to be held in the country, in Sanya in 2003-5, 2007 and 2010. It was also recognition for the charity work at the heart of Miss World through 'Beauty with a Purpose', particularly with the visit made by Julia Morley and Miss World 2004 Maria Julia Mantilla Garcia, along with Jackie Chan and other entertainers from Hong Kong, to meet victims recovering from the 2004 Asian tsunami.

Miss World Alexandria Mills and Miss World Africa Emma Wareus were also present at the event, where other recipients included representatives of the United Nations, the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union, NHK, the International Institute for Strategic Studies, and the Special Olympics.